Real basic question . . . .
 

but what technically constitutes a cabinet photo? Excuse my ignorance in advance. I have ideas but could be totally wrong. (And no, I don't collect them.)

Step 1. Take photo
Step 2. Put in cabinet
Done :D

and what is a cabinet?

Sorry. I could not help myself. The real answer is I don't know.

https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/im/...nt+Cabinet.jpg

The name Cabinet Photos refers to thin photographs mounted on thick backing or card typically 4/12 by 6/12. They get their name from the fact that they were generally visible from across the room. So could be placed on a cabinet and displayed for friends and family. Wikipedia has a more elaborate definition but this is the basics.

Thanks.